If you love foods that can be fixed in a wok, you should consider purchasing an electric wok. It doesn’t take up much room so it can store easily and fits perfectly on your countertop when in use. One of the biggest benefits is that no stove is required.
Why an Electric Wok
When we think of a wok, most of us probably think of some sort of stir-fry foods that are cooked in the wok. There are actually a number of other cooking processes that a wok can be used for. It is a multi-functional piece of cooking equipment that can create healthy and tasty meals. In addition, a wok cooks fast and at various temperatures.
Benefits of Using an Electric Wok
Self-contained – It’s a standalone cooking tool. The wok has a built-in heating element that heats the entire cooking surface to ensure even cooking of the food within the wok. Most have a longer electric cord to ensure any electrical outlet can be reached. In addition, the temperature control will range from warm/low to high so that you can keep foods warm or cook food very quickly.
Compact – The average sized wok is 14 inches in diameter which can hold about 6 to 7 quarts and is perfect for a family. This is about the size of an average skillet that you might use on the stovetop so it doesn’t take up much counter space. This makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or on the buffet table and guests can cook their own foods.
Multiple cooking options – Just about any food you love to eat can be fixed in a wok. From vegetable fried rice to French fries, the wok can handle the job. You can steam, boil, fry, braise, saute, sear or even tempura. In addition, since most heat to the requested temperature in about 3 minutes, you won’t have long to wait before eating; it’s faster and healthier than eating out.
Easy cleanup – Clean up is a snap. Although there are stainless steel woks available, most have a non-stick coating which makes them a breeze to clean. If the wok has a separate base, the wok and its lid should be dishwasher safe. If it’s an all-in-one unit then typically it shouldn’t be submerged in water.
Portable – Since an electric wok is self-contained, it can be taken anywhere there is electricity. You can take the wok to work or even camping. Remember, its compact (weighs on average 4 – 5 pounds) and heats quickly so the small space it uses and the small window of time to cook makes the wok a must have kitchen tool.
Reduce your electricity bill – Do you like to save money? It has been noted several times of the wok being self-contained and has different temperature levels. The combination of these two features reduces the number of burners and/or microwave you have on which reduces your utility bill. In addition, your traditional stove can take a while to reach the appropriate temperature you need while the wok takes about 3 minutes and actual cooking time is less as well. With less time turned on, the less electricity you will use thus lowering your electric bill.
If you are in need of a cooking tool that offers a lot of benefits like heats fast and doesn’t take up much space, consider getting a wok. You can cook just about anything in a wok that you can on the stove but in a smaller space and in a shorter period of time. There are a number of quality woks on the market today, simply choose the electric wok that best suits your needs.